Proximity sensor

ABSTRACT

A proximity sensor is arranged with a first electrode input with a first signal, a second electrode input with a second signal different from the first signal, a third electrode arranged closer to the first electrode than the second electrode, and the second signal has a reverse phase of the first signal.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority fromthe prior Japanese Patent Application No. 2017-228880, filed on Nov. 29,2017, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

An embodiment of the present invention relates to a proximity sensor anda display device.

BACKGROUND

Touch panels and proximity sensors are known as interfaces for a user toinput information into a display device. By arranging a touch panel orproximity sensor in a display device, a user can operate input buttonsor icons and the like displayed on the screen using the user's ownfinger or a touch pen. In addition, by arranging a touch panel or aproximity sensor in a display device, a user can scroll images displayedon the screen using the user's own finger or a touch pen.

For example, a system has been developed in which a pen sensor contactsa touch panel, and the system detects the input of the touch pen fromthe position where the touch pen contacts the touch panel.

SUMMARY

A proximity sensor is arranged with a first electrode input with a firstsignal, a second electrode input with a second signal different from thefirst signal, and a third electrode arranged closer to the firstelectrode than the second electrode.

A proximity sensor is arranged with a first electrode input with a firstsignal, a second electrode input with a second signal and having alarger area than the first electrode, and a third electrode arrangedcloser to the first electrode than the second electrode.

A display device is arranged with a display region panel includingpixels arranged in a first direction and a second direction intersectingthe first direction, and the proximity sensor described above has thefirst electrode arranged in the display region, and has the thirdelectrode arranged on the outer side of the display region.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 3 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram showing a structure of aproximity sensor and a display device related to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram showing a structure of aproximity sensor and a display device related to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram showing an example ofelectric lines of force in a proximity sensor and a display devicerelated to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram showing an example ofelectric lines of force in a proximity sensor and a display devicerelated to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is one example of a pixel layout included in a display devicerelated to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram showing one example of apixel included in a display device related to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 10 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 11 is a timing chart for explaining touch detection of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 12 is a timing chart for explaining touch detection of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 13 is a timing chart for explaining touch detection of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 14 is a timing chart for explaining touch detection of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 15 is a timing chart for explaining touch detection of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 16 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 17 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 18 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining a structure of a proximity sensorand a display device related to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining a structure of a proximity sensorand a display device related to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining a structure of a proximity sensorand a display device related to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram showing a structure of aproximity sensor and a display device related to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 23 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram showing a structure of aproximity sensor and a display device related to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 24 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 25 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 26 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram showing a structure of aproximity sensor and a display device related to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 27 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 28 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram showing a structure of aproximity sensor and a display device related to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 29 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram showing a structure of aproximity sensor and a display device related to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 30 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a proximitysensor and a display device related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 31 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram of an example of astructure of a display panel related to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 32 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a displaydevice related to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 33 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram showing a structure of adisplay device related to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 34 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram showing an example ofelectric lines of force in a display device related to one embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 35 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram showing an example ofelectric lines of force in a display device related to one embodiment ofthe present invention; and

FIG. 36 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram showing a structure of adisplay device related to one embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

The embodiments of the present invention are explained below whilereferring to the drawings. However, the present invention can beimplemented in many different without and should not to be interpretedas being limited to the description of the embodiments exemplifiedbelow. In addition, although the drawings may be schematicallyrepresented with respect to each part's structure as compared with theiractual mode in order to make explanation clearer, it is only an exampleand an interpretation of the present invention is not limited.Furthermore, in the present specification and each drawing, the samereference symbols (or symbols such as A, B, a, b and the like attachedafter a numeral) are attached to the same elements as those describedabove with reference to preceding figures and a detailed explanation maybe omitted accordingly. Furthermore, characters attached with [first],[second] to each element are appropriate signs used for distinguishingeach element and do not have any further meaning unless otherwiseexplained.

In recent years, the demand for non-contact sensing technology hasincreased. Non-contact sensing technology is, for example, a technologyfor detecting the coordinates of a detection target which is projectedon a display screen without a user touching the display screen. Thedetection target is, for example, a hand or a finger of a user separatedfrom the display screen. By using non-contact sensing technology, it ispossible for a user to operate input buttons and icons and the likedisplayed on the screen without touching the display screen. Inaddition, by using non-contact sensing technology, a user can scroll ascreen without touching the display screen.

In non-contact sensing, for example, a change in capacitance between anelectrode included in a proximity sensor arranged in a display device,and a hand or a finger of a user placed over a position separated fromthe display device is detected. In addition, in non-contact sensing, achange in capacitance is detected by shielding an electric field betweenelectrodes included in a proximity sensor arranged in a display deviceby a hand or a finger of a user placed over a position separated fromthe display device. However, this change in capacity is small whichmakes non-contact sensing difficult. In addition, depending on theintensity of the electric field and the area of the electrode, theinfluence of a hand or finger of a user cannot be ignored, and adecrease in sensing sensitivity makes non-contact sensing difficult.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a proximitysensor capable of accurately detecting a detection target separated froma proximity sensor without contacting the proximity sensor, and toprovide a display device mounted with the proximity sensor.

First Embodiment

In the present embodiment, a structure of a proximity sensor and adisplay device according to one embodiment of the present invention isexplained.

FIG. 1 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a displaydevice 670 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

As is shown in FIG. 1, the display device 670 is arranged with, forexample, a display panel 570, a circuit substrate 400, a circuitsubstrate 410, a connector 512, a connector 513 and a connector 514.

The display panel 570 includes a plurality of first touch electrodes 521arranged in parallel in a horizontal direction in a top view, aplurality of second touch electrodes 527 arranged in parallel a verticaldirection in a top view, a third electrode (Rx) 524A, a third electrode(Rx) 524B, a substrate 502, a substrate 110, a display region 504, animage signal line drive circuit 506, a scanning signal line drivecircuit 508, and a scanning signal line drive circuit 510. The pluralityof first touch electrodes 521 are formed from a first electrode (Txa)522 and a plurality of second electrodes (Txb) 520. The plurality ofsecond touch electrodes 527 are formed from a first electrode (Txa) 529and a second electrode (Txb) 528. Furthermore, the display panel 570 mayhave either one of the scanning signal line drive circuit 508 and thescanning signal line drive circuit 510.

A projection type electrostatic capacity type proximity sensor is formedby the first electrode (Txa) 522, the second electrode (Txb) 520 and thethird electrode (Rx) 524B. The first electrode (Txa) 522, the secondelectrode (Txb) 520, and the third electrode (Rx) 524B do not have tooverlap each other when viewed from the top surface of the displaypanel. In addition, in the cross-section of the display panel, the firstelectrode (Txa) 522 and the second electrode (Txb) 520 may be arrangedlower than the third electrode (Rx) 524B. In addition, in thecross-section of the display panel, the first electrode (Txa) 522 andthe second electrode (Txb) 520 may be also be arranged higher than thethird electrode (Rx) 524B. In one embodiment of the present invention,in the cross-section of the display panel, the first electrode (Txa) 522and the second electrode (Txb) 520 are arranged lower than the thirdelectrode (Rx) 524B. In addition, the third electrode (Rx) 524B, thefirst electrode (Txa) 522, and the second electrode (Txb) 520 arearranged to become closer in this order with respect to end surface (forexample, end surface of the substrate) of a surface arranged with eachelectrode. The second electrode (Txb) 520 is arranged adjacent to thefirst electrode (Txa) 522. The third electrode (Rx) 524B is arrangedadjacent to the first electrode (Txa) 522. A predetermined signal isinput to the first electrode (Txa) 522. A signal which has a differentphase from the phase of the predetermined signal is input to the secondelectrode (Txb) 520.

In addition, a projection type electrostatic capacity type proximitysensor is formed by the first electrode (Txa) 529, the second electrode(Txb) 528, and the third electrode (Rx) 524A. The first electrode (Txa)529, the second electrode (Txb) 528 and the third electrode (Rx) 524A donot have to overlap each other when viewed from the top surface of thedisplay panel. In addition, in the cross-section of the display panel,the first electrode (Txa) 529 and the second electrode (Txb) 528 may bearranged lower than the third electrode (Rx) 524A. In addition, thefirst electrode (Txa) 529 and the second electrode (Txb) 528 may bearranged higher than the third electrode (Rx) 524A. In one embodiment ofthe present invention, in the cross-section of the display panel, thefirst electrode (Txa) 529 and the second electrode (Txb) 528 arearranged on the same plane as the third electrode (Rx) 524A. Inaddition, the third electrode (Rx) 524 A, the first electrode (Txa) 529and the second electrode (Txb) 528 are arranged so as to become closerin this order with respect to an end surface (for example, substrate endsurface) of a surface on which each electrode is arranged. The secondelectrode (Txb) 528 is arranged adjacent to the first electrode (Txa)529. The third electrode (Rx) 524A is arranged adjacent to the firstelectrode (Txa) 529. A predetermined signal is input to the firstelectrode (Txa) 529. A signal which has a different phase to the phaseof the predetermined signal is input to the second electrode (Txb) 528.The projection type electrostatic capacitance type of sensor method isroughly separated into a self-capacitance type and a mutual capacitancetype.

In the self-capacitance type, a detection target such as a human fingertouches or comes near to (referred to herein as touching when in thecase where touching and approaching are referred to collectively) thedisplay region 504 via the first electrode (Txa) 522 and the thirdelectrode (Rx) 524B, thereby capacitance generated between the detectiontarget and the first electrode (Txa) 522 or the third electrode (Rx) 524is added to the parasitic capacitance in the first electrode (Txa) 522and the third electrode (Rx) 524B. The position of the touch is detectedby reading this change. Furthermore, the case of the self-capacitancetype which uses the first electrode (Txa) 529 and the third electrode(Rx) 524A is also the same as the case where the first electrode (Txa)522 and the third electrode (Rx) 524B are used.

In the mutual capacitive type, the first electrode (Txa) 522 and thesecond electrode (Txb) 520 are also called a transmitting electrode (Tx)and the third electrode (Rx) 524B is also called a receiving electrode(Rx). When a detection target such as a human finger touches the displayregion 504 via the first electrode (Txa) 522 and the third electrode(Rx) 524B, a capacitance formed by the first electrode (Txa) 522 and thethird electrode (Rx) 524B changes, and the position of the touch isdetected by reading this change. In the case where the distance betweenthe detection target such as a human hand or finger and the firstelectrode (Txa) 522 and the third electrode (Rx) 524 B is not close, forexample, in the third electrode (Rx) 524B and the first electrode (Txa)522, by making the area of one electrode larger than the area of theother electrode, it is possible to improve the detection sensitivity ofthe detection target. However, since an electric field which isgenerated from the electrode becomes strong when the area of theelectrode is increased, the detection target such as a human hand andthe electrode mutually affect each other and there is a possibility thatthe detection sensitivity is lowered. Furthermore, the case of themutual capacitance type which uses the first electrode (Txa) 529 and thethird electrode (Rx) 524A is also the same as the case where the firstelectrode (Txa) 522, the second electrode (Txb) 520 and the thirdelectrode (Rx) 524B are used.

In the display device 670 according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, contact type sensing is performed when a finger touches withthe display panel 570, a pulse signal is applied in time series inorder, for example, from an upper electrode in a top surface view of aplurality of first touch electrodes 521. One of the plurality of secondtouch electrodes 527 detects a change in a pulse signal at a positionwhere the finger touches the display panel 570. In this way, it ispossible to perform touch detection in a contact state.

In addition, in the display device 670 according to one embodiment ofthe present invention, non-contact sensing is when a hand is held overthe display panel 570, a predetermined signal is input, for example, tothe first electrode (Txa) 522 among the plurality of first touchelectrodes 521. At the same time, a signal having a different phase fromthe phase of the predetermined signal is input to the second electrode(Txb) 520 among the plurality of first touch electrodes 521. The handreceives an electric field of the second electrode (Txb) 520, and thepredetermined signal is transmitted to the third electrode (Rx) 524B viaboth a capacitance formed between the second electrode (Txb) 520 and thehand and a capacitance formed between the hand and the third electrode(Rx) 524B. The first electrode (Txa) 522, the second electrode (Txb)520, and the third electrode (Rx) 524 are used as mutually capacitivetype proximity sensors even when the detection target, the proximitysensor and the display device are not in contact with each other,thereby it is possible to detect the position where the hand is heldover. Furthermore, in the case when the first electrode (Txa) 522 andthe second electrode (Txb) 520 are used for touch detection, the thirdelectrode (Rx) 524B is used and the third electrode (Rx) 524A is notused. Similarly, a predetermined signal is input to the first electrode(Txa) 529 among the plurality of second touch electrodes 527, and asignal having a different phase from the phase of the predeterminedsignal is input to the second electrode (Txb) 528 among the plurality ofsecond touch electrodes 527. The hand receives an electric field of thesecond electrode (Txb) 528, and the predetermined signal is transmittedto the third electrode (Rx) 524A via both a capacitance formed betweenthe second electrode (Txb) 528 and the hand, and between the hand andthe third electrode (Rx) 524A. The first electrode (Txa) 529, the secondelectrode (Txb) 528, and the third electrode (Rx) 524 are used asmutually capacitive type proximity sensors even when the detectiontarget, the proximity sensor and the display device are not in anon-contact state with each other, thereby it is possible to detect theposition where the hand is held over. Furthermore, in the case when thefirst electrode (Txa) 529 and the second electrode (Txb) 528 are usedfor touch detection, the third electrode (Rx) 524A is used and the thirdelectrode (Rx) 524B is not used. Furthermore, it is possible to detect atouch position by inputting different signals to each of the pluralityof second electrodes (Txb) 520 included in the first touch electrode 521and detecting a change in the amplitude of the input signal. Performingtouch detection by inputting a predetermined signal to the firstelectrode (Txa) 522, and performing touch detection by inputtingdifferent signals to each of the plurality of first touch electrodes 521included in the second electrode (Txb) 520 can be switched by a signalsupply circuit 24 included in the circuit substrate 400.

According to FIG. 1, an example is shown in which the display panel 570is held between the substrate 502 and the substrate 110. A displayregion 504, an image signal line drive circuit 506, a scanning signalline drive circuit 508, a scanning signal line drive circuit 510, and aplurality of first touch electrodes 521 are formed on the substrate 502.The connector 512 is electrically connected to the substrate 502. Theplurality of second touch electrodes 527 are formed between thesubstrate 502 and the substrate 110 and between the plurality of firsttouch electrodes 521 and the substrate 110. The connector 513 iselectrically connected to the substrate 110. It is not necessary thatall of the image signal line drive circuit 506 and the scanning signalline drive circuits 508 and the scanning signal line drive circuits 510be formed on the substrate 502. For example, an integrated circuit (IC)(not shown in the diagram) including a part or all of the functions ofthe image signal line drive circuit 506 and the scanning signal linedrive circuits 508 and the scanning signal line drive circuits 510 isformed on the substrate 502 or on the connector 512.

The substrate 502 and the substrate 110 may be a hard base materialsubstrate such as a glass substrate, or a base material havingflexibility. A hard base material such as a glass substrate can includematerials exemplified by, for example, a glass substrate, a quartzsubstrate and a ceramic substrate. By using a hard base material such asa glass substrate for the substrate 502, it is possible to provide thedisplay panel 570 with high rigidity. The base material havingflexibility can include, for example, a material selected from polymermaterials exemplified by polyimide, polyamide, polyester andpolycarbonate. By using a base material having flexibility for thesubstrate 502 and the substrate 110, it is possible to provide a lightand thin display panel 570.

The display region 504 includes a plurality of pixels 120 (shown in FIG.8). The plurality of pixels 120 are arranged along a first direction anda second direction intersecting the first direction. The arrangementnumber of the plurality of pixels 120 is arbitrary. For example, withthe X direction set as the first direction and the Y direction set asthe second direction, m pixels are arranged in the X direction and npixels 120 are arranged in the Y direction. m and n are eachindependently a natural number larger than 1. The display region 504includes a region in which the pixels 120 are arranged along a firstdirection and a second direction intersecting the first direction. Eachof the pixels 120 includes a display element. The display elementincludes, for example, a liquid crystal element or an organic ELelement. In the present specification, the case where the display panel570 includes a liquid crystal element is explained as an example.

In the pixel 120, for example, it is possible to arrange displayelements corresponding to the three primary colors of red (R), green(G), and blue (B) for each of three pixels. By supplying a voltage of256 levels or a current to each pixel, it is possible to provide a fullcolor display device. In addition to the three primary colors, the pixel120 may also include a display element corresponding to white or yellow.In addition, the arrangement of the plurality of pixels 120 is notlimited. For example, a stripe arrangement or a delta arrangement andthe like may be adopted.

The circuit substrate 400 includes at least a timing generation circuitpart 16, a signal detection circuit part 10, a signal supply circuit 24and a power supply circuit 22. In addition, the circuit substrate 400 iselectrically connected to the circuit substrate 410 via the connector514.

The timing generation circuit part 16 can generate a signal for touchdetection. The timing generation circuit part 16 can generate one ormore signals. In addition, the generated signal may be a plurality ofthe same signals, a plurality of mutually different signals, or the samesignal and a plurality of mutually different signals. The signals may beappropriately selected within a scope that does not depart from thestructure according to the present invention. The generated signal issupplied to the first electrode (Txa) 522, the first electrode (Txa)529, the second electrode (Txb) 520 and the second electrode (Txb) 528.

The signal detection circuit part 10 is electrically connected to thethird electrode (Rx) 524A and the third electrode (Rx) 524B. The signaldetection circuit part 10 can detect a signal when the proximity sensoror the display device is touched. The detected signal is supplied fromthe circuit substrate 400 to the display panel 570 via the connector512. In addition, the detected signal is supplied from the circuitsubstrate 400 to the display panel 570 via the connector 514, thecircuit substrate 410 and the connector 513. Furthermore, the signalwhen the touch is made is supplied from the display panel 570 to thecircuit substrate 400 via the connector 512. In addition, a signal whenthe touch is made is supplied from the display panel 570 to the circuitsubstrate 400 via the connector 513, the circuit substrate 410 and theconnector 514.

A flexible printed circuit (FPC) can be used as the connector 512, theconnector 513, and the connector 514.

Furthermore, the circuit substrate 410 may also include a timinggeneration circuit part 16, a signal detection circuit part 10, a signalsupply circuit 24 and a power supply circuit 22.

The signal supply circuit 24 generates an image signal and a timingsignal for controlling the operation of the circuit. In addition, thepower supply circuit 22 supplies power to the timing generation circuitpart 16, the signal detection circuit part 10, the signal supply circuit24 and the display panel 570. The connector 512 also has the role ofsupplying an image signal, a timing signal for controlling the operationof the circuit, and a power supply to the image signal line drivecircuit 506, the scanning signal line drive circuit 508 and the scanningsignal line drive circuit 510.

The image signal line drive circuit 506, the scanning signal line drivecircuit 508 and the scanning signal line drive circuit 510 drive eachpixel 120 using a supplied image signal, a timing signal for controllingthe operation of the circuit, and a power supply, and has the role ofdisplaying an image in the display region 504.

FIG. 2 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of theproximity sensor and the display device according to one embodiment ofthe invention. In order to promote understanding, FIG. 2 shows anexcerpt of a plurality of first touch electrodes 521, a substrate 502, adisplay region 504, an image signal line drive circuit 506, a scanningsignal line drive circuit 508, a scanning signal line drive circuit 510,the circuit substrate 400 and the connector 512 in the display panel570. Furthermore, FIG. 2 is the same as FIG. 1 except that a firstconnection wiring 45 is illustrated. The same structure as in FIG. 1 isomitted here.

The first connection wiring 45 electrically connects the plurality offirst touch electrodes 521 and the connector 512. The first connectionwiring 45 is independently and electrically connected to each of theplurality of first touch electrodes 521. Therefore, each of theplurality of first touch electrodes 521 is controlled independently.

FIG. 3 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a proximitysensor and a display device according to one embodiment of theinvention. In order to promote understanding, FIG. 3 shows an excerpt ofa plurality of second touch electrodes 527, a third electrode (Rx) 524Aand a third electrode (Rx) 524B in the display panel 570. Furthermore,FIG. 3 is the same as FIG. 1 except that a second connection wiring 310is illustrated. The same structure as in FIG. 1 is omitted here.

The second connection wiring 310 electrically connects the plurality ofsecond touch electrodes 527, the third electrode (Rx) 524A and the thirdelectrode (Rx) 524B and the connector 513. The second connection wiring310 is independently and electrically connected to each of the pluralityof second touch electrodes 527, the third electrode (Rx) 524A and thethird electrode (Rx) 524B. Therefore, each of the plurality of secondtouch electrodes 527, the third electrode (Rx) 524A and the thirdelectrode (Rx) 524B is controlled independently.

FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 are schematic cross-sectional diagrams showingstructures of a proximity sensor and a display device according to oneembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows a cross-section of theregion shown by D1 and D2 in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 shows a cross-section of theregion shown by E1 and E2 in FIG. 1. The display panel 570 includes asubstrate 20, a TFT array layer 30, a common electrode layer 40, aconnection wiring layer 48, a first oriented film 50, a liquid crystallayer 60, a second oriented film 70, a color filter layer 80, anopposing substrate 90, a first touch electrode layer 100 and a substrate110. Furthermore, the substrate 20 is the same as the substrate 502shown in FIG. 2. The pixel electrode 52 included in the pixel 120 isarranged between the common electrode layer 40 and the first orientedfilm 50. In the opposing substrate 90, a third electrode (Rx) 524A andthird electrode (Rx) 524B are arranged on a rear surface of the surfaceon which the color filter layer 80 is arranged.

The connection wiring layer 48 includes the first connection wiring 45.The first connection wiring 45 is electrically connected to the firstelectrode (Txa) 522 and the plurality of second electrodes (Txb) 520 viaa third opening part 46.

The TFT array layer 30, the common electrode layer 40 and the firsttouch electrode layer 100 are arranged on the substrate 502. Atransistor included in the display region 504, the image signal linedrive circuit 506, the scanning signal line drive circuits 508 and thescanning signal line drive circuits 510 and a terminal electrode 516(not shown in the diagram) are arranged in the TFT array layer 30. Theterminal electrode 516 is electrically connected to the connector 512.The common electrode layer 40 is arranged with a first electrode (Txa)522 and a second electrode (Txb) 520. A first electrode (Txa) 529,second electrode (Txb) 528, third electrode (Rx) 524A and a thirdelectrode (Rx) 524B are arranged in the first touch electrode layer 100.Each of the signal lines electrically connected to the image signal linedrive circuit 506, the scanning signal line drive circuit 508 and thescanning signal line drive circuit 510 is electrically connected to theterminal electrode 516. Therefore, an image signal, a timing signal forcontrolling the operation of a circuit, and a power supply are suppliedfrom the connector 512 to the image signal line drive circuit 506, thescanning signal line drive circuit 508 and the scanning signal linedrive circuit 510 via the terminal electrode 516. In addition, each ofthe first connection wirings 45 electrically connected to the firstelectrode (Txa) 522, the second electrode (Txb) 520 and the thirdelectrode (Rx) 524B is also electrically connected to the terminalelectrode 516. Therefore, a signal for touch detection and a signal whena touch is made are transmitted from the connector 512 via the terminalelectrode 516 to the first electrode (Txa) 522, the second electrode(Txb) 520 and the third electrode (Rx) 524B. Furthermore, the secondconnection wiring 310 electrically connected to the first electrode(Txa) 529, the second electrode (Txb) 528 and the third electrode (Rx)524A is electrically connected to a terminal electrode 516 (not shown inthe diagram) formed on the opposing substrate 90. The terminal electrode516 (not shown in the diagram) formed on the opposing substrate 90 iselectrically connected to the connector 513. Therefore, a signal fortouch detection and a signal when a touch is made are transmitted fromthe connector 513 via the terminal electrode 516 to the first electrode(Txa) 529, the second electrode (Txb) 528 and the third electrode (Rx)524A.

The TFT array layer 30 includes a plurality of transistors 190, acapacitor element, a resistor element and each type of wiring. The TFTarray layer 30 is a layer formed with a transistor 190 of the displayregion 540, the image signal line drive circuit 506 and the scanningsignal line drive circuit 508 based on the plurality of transistors 190,the capacitor element, the resistor element and each type of wiring. TheTFT array layer 30 has the role of driving the display panel 570.

When an image is displayed on the display panel 570, a common voltage of0V, for example, is applied to the first electrode (Txa) 522 and thesecond electrode (Txb) 520 included in the common electrode layer 40.When a voltage is applied to the first electrode (Txa) 522 and thesecond electrode (Txb) 520, liquid crystal elements included in theliquid crystal layer 60 are controlled by the voltages applied to thepixel electrode 52. At this time, a common voltage of 0V may also beapplied to the third electrode (Rx) 524A and the third electrode (Rx)524B.

FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 are schematic cross-sectional diagrams showingexamples of electric lines of force of a display panel according to oneembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 shows a cross-section of aregion shown by D1 and D2 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectionof a region shown by E1 and E2 shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a graph schematically showing electric lines of force in anelectric field generated between the first electrode (Txa) 529 and thesecond electrode (Txb) 528, electric lines of force in an electric fieldgenerated between the second electrode (Txb) 528 and the third electrode(Rx) 524A, and electric lines of force in an electric field generatedbetween the first electrode (Txa) 529 and the third electrode (Rx) 524Awhen a touch is detected.

FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing electric lines of force in anelectric field generated between the first electrode (Txa) 522 and thesecond electrode (Txb) 520, electric lines of force in an electric fieldgenerated between the second electrode (Txb) 520 and the third electrode(Rx) 524B, and electric lines of force in an electric field generatedbetween the first electrode (Txa) 522 and the third electrode (Rx) 524Bwhen a touch is detected. Touch detection and writing new image data toa pixel are not carried out at the same time.

FIG. 8 shows an example of a pixel layout of a display device accordingto one embodiment of the present invention. The pixel 120 has astructure which can be applied to an FFS (Fringe Field Switching) modeor IPS (In Plane Switching) mode. The display panel 500 including thepixel 120 controls the orientation of liquid crystal molecules whichform the liquid crystal layer 60 mainly utilizing a transverse electricfield (for example, an electric field almost parallel to the mainsurface of the substrate among the fringe electric fields) which isformed between the first electrode (Txa) 522 and the second electrode(Txb) 520 included in the pixel electrode 52 and the common electrodelayer 40.

A pixel 120 shown in FIG. 8 includes a transistor 190, an image signalline 191, a scanning signal line 192 and a pixel electrode 52. Thetransistor 190 includes a semiconductor film 32, a gate electrode 34, asource or drain electrode 36 and a source or drain electrode 38, a firstopening part 39 a and a first opening part 39 b. The source or drainelectrode 36 and the source or drain electrode 38 are electricallyconnected to the semiconductor film 32 via the first opening part 39 aand the first opening part 39 b. The pixel electrode 52 is electricallyconnected to the source or drain electrode 38 via a second opening part194. A capacitor element is formed by the source or drain electrode 38,the first electrode (Txa) 522, and the planarization film 31 describedlater, the first electrode (Txa) 522, the pixel electrode 52, and anorganic film 42. The source or drain electrode 36 and the image signalline 191 a are electrically connected to each other. The image signalline 191 b is an image signal line of an adjacent pixel. The gateelectrode 34 and the scanning signal line 192 are electrically connectedto each other. When an image is displayed on the display panel 500, thefirst electrode (Txa) 522 has the role of supplying a common voltage toall the pixels 120 included in the display region 504. An electric fieldis generated between the pixel electrode 52 and the first electrode(Txa) 522 by applying a voltage to each of the pixel electrode 52 andthe first electrode (Txa) 522 respectively. A liquid crystal elementincluded in the liquid crystal layer 60 is controlled based on thegenerated electric field. Therefore, the display panel 500 can displayimages. Furthermore, FIG. 8 exemplifies a mode in which thesemiconductor film 32 has a U-shaped shape and intersects the gateelectrode 34. In one embodiment of the present invention, the shape ofthe semiconductor film 32 is not limited to the shape shown in FIG. 8.It is possible to apply various shapes such as an L shape or I shape tothe shape of the semiconductor film 32 which forms the transistor 190.In addition, the structure of the transistor 190 is not limited to adouble gate structure. The structure of the transistor 190 may also be asingle gate structure or a multi-gate structure in which a gateelectrode is arranged so that two or more channels are arranged inseries or in parallel between a source electrode and a drain electrode.In addition, examples of a material for forming the semiconductor film32 in the transistor 190 include polysilicon, amorphous silicon and anoxide semiconductor. Furthermore, an example in which the structure ofthe transistor 190 is a top gate type is shown in FIG. 9 describedlater. A bottom gate type may also be applied as the structure of thetransistor 190. The shape of the semiconductor film 32, the material forforming the semiconductor film 32, and the structure of the transistor190 may be appropriately examined according to the specifications or useof the display device without departing from the scope of one embodimentof the present invention.

In the present specification, the first electrode (Txa) 522 is one ofthe electrodes of the proximity sensor at the time of touch detection.

FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram of a display panelaccording to one embodiment of the present invention and includes across-section of a region shown by B1 and B2 of the pixel shown in FIG.8. A manufacturing method of the display panel 570 is explained usingFIG. 9. Furthermore, the manufacturing method of the display panel 570according to one embodiment of the present invention explained here isone example, and the manufacturing method of the display panel 570according to one embodiment of the present invention is not limited tothe manufacturing method explained here. The manufacturing method of thedisplay panel 570 according to one embodiment of the present inventionis explained using an example of utilizing a photolithography techniqueused in the manufacture of display panels. However, the manufacturingmethod of the display panel 570 according to one embodiment of thepresent invention is not limited to a photolithography technique, andany manufacturing method usually used in the technical field of thepresent invention may be adopted.

First, the TFT array layer 30 is formed on the substrate 20. The TFTarray layer 30 includes a base film 106, a semiconductor film 32, a gateinsulating film 33, a gate electrode 34, an interlayer film 35, a sourceor drain electrode 36 and a source or drain electrode 38, a firstopening part 39 a and a first opening part 39 b, and a planarizationfilm 31. A transistor 190 and a capacitor are formed In the TFT arraylayer 30.

The planarization film 31 relieves irregularities caused when a film, awiring, or a transistor is formed in a layer below the planarizationfilm 31. Therefore, it is possible to form a film or a pattern on a flatsurface after forming the planarization film 31.

It is possible to adopt methods and members which are commonly used inthe technical field of the present invention for the method for formingthe TFT array layer 30, the structure of the transistor 190 and thecapacitor, and for each film, layer and each member. For example, it ispossible to use polyimide or acrylic resin as a material for forming theplanarization film 31. It is possible to allow light to sufficiently betransmitted by using polyimide or acrylic resin.

A common electrode layer 40 is formed above the planarization film 31.The common electrode layer 40 is formed from a first electrode (Txa) 522and an organic film 42. After each electrode is formed, the organic film42 is coated so as to cover each electrode. By coating the organic film42 so as to cover each electrode, it is possible to prevent therespective electrodes from contacting and conducting with each other.The organic film 42 relieves irregularities caused when a film, awiring, or a transistor is formed in a layer below the organic film 42.Therefore, a film or pattern formed after the formation of the organicfilm 42 is formed on a flat surface. The material for forming the firstelectrode (Txa) 522 is preferred to have translucency and hasconductivity. For example, ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) and IZO (Indium ZincOxide) can be used. In addition, the same material as the material forforming the planarization film 31 can be used as the material forforming the organic film 42.

Next, a third opening part 46 (shown in FIG. 6) for opening the organicfilm 42 is formed. The first electrode (Txa) 522 and the firstconnection wiring 45 are electrically connected via the third openingpart 46. In addition, the second electrode (Txb) 520 and the firstconnection wiring 45 are electrically connected via the third openingpart 46.

Next, a connection wiring layer 48 is formed on the organic film 42. Theconnection wiring layer 48 is formed from the first connection wiring 45and the organic film 42. After the first connection wiring 45 is formedon the organic film 42, an opening part is formed which passes throughthe first connection wiring 45, the organic film 42, the first electrode(Txa) 522 and the second electrode (Txb) 520. An organic insulating film47 is coated so as to cover the first connection wiring 45 and thisopening part. The material for forming the first electrode (Txa) 522 andthe second electrode (Txb) 520 is preferred to have translucency andconductivity. For example, ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) and IZO (Indium ZincOxide) can be used. Furthermore, a thin film made of a conductive metalmaterial such as Al, Ti, or W may also be used. The same material as thematerial for forming the organic film 42 and the planarization film 31can be used as a material for forming the organic insulating film 47.

Next, a second opening part 194 for electrically connecting the pixelelectrode 52 and the source or drain electrode 38 is formed. The secondopening part 194 opens the organic insulating film 47.

Next, after the pixel electrode 52 is formed, a first oriented film 50is coated so as to cover the pixel electrode 52. The first oriented film50 is arranged on a surface of the substrate 20 facing the liquidcrystal layer 60. The first oriented film 50 is formed from a materialwhich shows horizontal oriented properties for example. By coating thefirst oriented film so as to cover each pixel electrode, it is possibleto prevent the pixel electrodes of the respective pixels from contactingand conducting with each other. The pixel electrode 52 is connected tothe source or drain electrode 38 of a pixel, and a voltage correspondingto the image signal is applied. A voltage corresponding to an imagesignal is applied to the pixel electrode 52. It is possible to drive aliquid crystal element included in the liquid crystal layer 60 based onthe application of a voltage corresponding to an image signal to a pixelelectrode 52. For example, the same material as the material for formingthe first electrode (Txa) 522 can be used as a material for forming thepixel electrode 52. For example, a polyimide resin can be used as amaterial for forming the first oriented film 50.

It is possible to manufacture a so-called TFT array side substrate usingthe manufacturing method explained above.

Next, a manufacturing method of an opposing side substrate is explained.The opposing side substrate has an opposing substrate 90, a color filterlayer 80, a second oriented film 70, a first touch electrode layer 100and a substrate 110. The second oriented film 70 is applied afterforming the color filter layer 80 on the opposing substrate 90. Forexample, a polyimide resin can be used as a material for forming thesecond oriented film 70. In addition, the order of formation of thecolor filter layer 80 may be appropriately selected. For example, a redcolor filter layer may be formed, a green color filter layer may beformed, and then a blue color filter layer may be formed. The colorfilter layer may be formed on the entire surface by coating and thenformed by a photolithography technique. Furthermore, the method offorming the color filter layer is not limited to this method. The firsttouch electrode layer 100 is formed from a first electrode (Txa) 529 anda second electrode (Txb) 528 which form a second touch electrode 527, athird electrode (Rx) 524A, a third electrode Rx) 524B, and an insulatingfilm covering each electrode. A first electrode (Txa) 529 and a secondelectrode (Txb) 528 which form the second touch electrode 527, a thirdelectrode (Rx) 524A and a third electrode (Rx) 524B are arranged on asurface on the opposite side to a surface where the color filter layer80 is arranged in the opposing substrate 90. The material for formingthe insulating film may be an organic resin or a material containing anadhesive. For example, it is possible to use a similar material as theplanarization film 31 as a material for forming the insulating film. Inaddition, the first electrode (Txa) 529 and the second electrode (Txb)528 which form the second touch electrode 527, the third electrode (Rx)524A and the third electrode (Rx) 524B can be formed using the materialfor forming first the electrode (Txa) 522 and the second electrode (Txb)520. Furthermore, by arranging the substrate 110 on the insulating film,it is possible to prevent damage to the display panel, particularly tothe touch electrode layer. The first electrode (Txa) 529 and the secondelectrode (Txb) 528 are utilized together with the third electrode (Rx)524A as a mutual capacitive type proximity sensor. Therefore, by usingthe first electrode (Txa) 529, the second electrode (Txb) 528, and thethird electrode (Rx) 524A, it is possible to perform detection whenholding a hand (over an electrode).

In the example of the manufacturing method of the display deviceaccording to one embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 9,the color filter layer 80 is formed directly above the opposingsubstrate 90. The color filter layer 80 may not be formed directly abovethe opposing substrate 90, and an insulating film may be formed abovethe opposing substrate 90. By forming this insulating film, the surfaceof the opposing substrate 90 can be planarized. Therefore, since it ispossible to planarize the color filter layer 80 formed above theinsulating film, it is possible to suppress color mixing betweenadjacent pixels. In addition, a layer may be formed with a lightshielding film above the opposing substrate 90 or between the colorfilter layer 80 and the second oriented film 70. The layer on which thelight shielding film is formed has the role of shielding visible lightand it is also possible to suppress color mixing between adjacentpixels.

An opposing side substrate can be manufactured using the manufacturingmethod described above.

Finally, the liquid crystal layer 60 is sandwiched between a substrateon the side of the TFT array and a substrate on the opposing side using,for example, a sealing material or the like, and bonded. Furthermore, apolarization plate may be bonded to one or both of the substrate 20 andthe opposing substrate 90. In this way, the display panel 500 can bemanufactured.

FIG. 10 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a proximitysensor and a display device according to one embodiment of the presentinvention. Compared to FIG. 1, the details of the circuit substrate 400and clarification of an electrical connection between the circuitsubstrate 400 and each electrode are different. In FIG. 10, the samecontents as in FIG. 1 are omitted from the explanation here. FIG. 11 isa timing chart for explaining touch detection of a proximity sensor andthe display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.Touch detection is explained using FIG. 10 and FIG. 11. Furthermore, inorder to promote understanding, the circuit substrate 410, the connector512, the connector 513 and the connector 514 are omitted from thediagrams. In addition, a path where the wirings 530, 532, and 534 areelectrically connected to the second connection wiring 310 formed on theopposing substrate 90, the connector 513, the circuit substrate 410, theconnector 514, and the circuit substrate 400 is shown as one wiring forthe purpose of promoting understanding.

The circuit substrate 400 includes an amplifier circuit 18. Theamplifier circuit 18 is electrically connected to the timing generationcircuit part 16. One of the amplifying circuits 18 is electricallyconnected to the first electrode (Txa) 522, and another amplifyingcircuit 18 is electrically connected to the second electrode (Txb) 520.At the time of touch detection, a predetermined signal is input from thetiming generation circuit part 16 to one of the amplification circuits18. In addition, the amplified predetermined signal (Txas) is outputfrom one amplifier circuit 18 via the wiring 532 and input to the firstelectrode (Txa) 522. In addition, at the time of touch detection, asignal different from the predetermined signal is input from the timinggeneration circuit part 16 to the other amplifier circuit 18. Inaddition, a signal (Txbs) which is different from the amplifiedpredetermined signal is output from the other amplifier circuit 18 viathe wiring 530 and input to the second electrode (Txb) 520. Furthermore,a signal different from the predetermined signal may have a differentphase from the predetermined signal. Specifically, the phase of thesignal which is different from the predetermined signal may be thereverse of the phase of the predetermined signal. When the displaydevice 670 is not touched, a first state of a signal of the thirdelectrode (Rxs1) as shown in FIG. 11 is detected in the third electrode(Rx) 524B via the wiring 534. Next, when a finger touches in proximityof the display device 670, for example, the capacitance value of aparasitic capacitor 538 changes via the second electrode (Txb) 520 andthe third electrode (Rx) 524B, and a second state of a signal of thethird electrode (Rxs2) as shown in FIG. 11 is detected in the thirdelectrode (Rx) 524B. Rxs2 has a smaller voltage amplitude compared toRxs1. Next, when a hand is held in proximity to the display device 670,for example, a third state of a signal of the third electrode (Rxs3) asshown in FIG. 11 is detected in the third electrode (Rx) 524B via thefirst electrode (Txa) 522 and the third electrode (Rx). Rxs3 has asmaller voltage amplitude compared with Rxs2. Furthermore, the voltageamplitude of a predetermined signal and the voltage amplitude of asignal different from a predetermined signal may be appropriatelyselected within a range which does not depart from the structureaccording to the present invention. For example, the voltage amplitudeof each signal may be 8V or 10V. For example, the detected signal Rxs1may be amplified by a calculation amplifier circuit 12 included in thesignal detection circuit part 10. By amplifying the detected signal Rxs1using the calculation amplifier circuit 12, the waveform of the signalis clarified and detection sensitivity is improved. Furthermore, thedetected signal Rxs1 may be converted into a digital signal by an ADconversion circuit 14 after being amplified by the calculation amplifiercircuit 12. By converting the detected signal Rxs1 from an analog signalto a digital signal, since a digital signal does not deteriorate in thesame way as an analog signal, it is possible to perform signalprocessing stably.

As is shown in FIG. 10, the area of the second electrode (Txb) 520 islarger than the area of the first electrode (Txa) 522. The area of thefirst electrode (Txa) 522 is smaller than the area of the secondelectrode (Txb) 520.

In FIG. 11, Tt is a time period of touch detection. In addition, Tdp isa time period during which an image signal is input to the displaydevice 600 and image data is written to the display panel 500. In Tdp,the amplified predetermined signal (Txas) and the signal (Txbs)different from the amplified predetermined signal are applied with acommon constant voltage. For example, a common voltage of 0V is applied.

In the proximity sensor and the display device according to oneembodiment of the present invention, the first electrode (Txa), thesecond electrode (Txb), and the third electrode (Rx) are used as mutualcapacitance type proximity sensors. Therefore, even when the detectiontarget, the proximity sensor and the display device are in a non-contactstate, a hand receives an electric field of the first electrode (Txa),and a predetermined signal is transmitted to the third electrode (Rx)via a capacitance which is formed by a hand with the first electrode(Txa), and a capacitance formed by the third electrode (Rx) with a hand.Therefore, by using the proximity sensor and the display deviceaccording to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible todetect the position where the hand is held over. In addition, since awaveform of the touch detection becomes clear by including the proximitysensor and the display device according to one embodiment of the presentinvention with a calculation amplifier circuit, it is possible torealize highly accurate touch detection.

Second Embodiment

In the present embodiment, a timing chart of the proximity sensor andthe display device according to one embodiment of the present inventionis explained. Furthermore, an explanation of the same structure as inthe first embodiment may be omitted.

FIG. 12 is a timing chart for explaining the touch detection of theproximity sensor and the display device according to one embodiment ofthe present invention. Although an example in which the voltageamplitude between the predetermined signal (Txas) and the signal (Txbs)which is different from the predetermined signal is the same is shown inFIG. 11, in FIG. 12 an example is shown in which the voltage amplitudebetween the predetermined signal (Txas) and a signal (Txbs) which isdifferent from the predetermined signal are different. Apart from this,the remainder is the same as in FIG. 11, and therefore an explanation isomitted here.

FIG. 13 is a timing chart for explaining touch detection of theproximity sensor and the display device according to one embodiment ofthe present invention. FIG. 13 shows an example in which a pulse widthis different between the predetermined signal (Txas) and the signal(Txbs) which is different from the predetermined signal. For example, inthe case when Tt is a unit of time, the predetermined signal (Txas)corresponds to one cycle, whereas the signal (Txbs) which is differentfrom the predetermined signal has two cycles. In addition, FIG. 13 showsan example in which a pulse width is different and a voltage amplitudeis different between the predetermined signal (Txas) and the signal(Txbs) which is different from the predetermined signal. Apart from thisthe remainder is the same as in FIG. 11, and therefore an explanation isomitted here.

FIG. 14 is a timing chart for explaining touch detection of theproximity sensor and the display device according to one embodiment ofthe present invention. An example is shown in FIG. 14 in which thepredetermined signal (Txas) and the predetermined signal (Txbs) have thesame phase. In addition, in FIG. 14, an example is shown in which thepredetermined signal (Txas) and the predetermined signal (Txbs) have thesame phase and the voltage amplitude of the predetermined signal (Txbs)is smaller than the voltage amplitude of the predetermined signal(Txas). Apart from this the remainder is the same as in FIG. 11, andtherefore an explanation is omitted here. Furthermore, in the case whenthe predetermined signal (Txas) and the predetermined signal (Txbs) havethe same phase, the area of the second electrode (Txb) 520 is largerthan the area of the first electrode (Txa) 522. Alternatively, the areaof the first electrode (Txa) 522 is smaller than the area of the secondelectrode (Txb) 520.

FIG. 15 is a timing chart for explaining touch detection of theproximity sensor and the display device according to one embodiment ofthe present invention. In FIG. 15, an example is shown in which thepredetermined signal (Txas) and the signal (Txbs) which is differentfrom the predetermined signal have different pulse widths. For example,in the case when Tt is a unit of time, the predetermined signal (Txas)corresponds to one cycle, whereas the signal (Txbs) which is differentfrom the predetermined signal has two cycles. In addition, an example isshown in FIG. 15 in which the predetermined signal (Txas) and the signal(Txbs) which is different from the predetermined signal have differentpulse widths and different voltage amplitudes. Apart from this theremainder is the same as in FIG. 11, and therefore an explanation isomitted here. Furthermore, in the case when the predetermined signal(Txas) and the signal (Txbs) which is different from the predeterminedsignal have the same phase, the area of the second electrode (Txb) 520is larger than the area of the first electrode (Txa) 522. Alternatively,the area of the first electrode (Txa) 522 is preferred to be smallerthan the area of the second electrode (Txb) 520.

In the proximity sensor and the display device according to oneembodiment of the present invention, the first electrode (Txa), thesecond electrode (Txb) and the third electrode (Rx) are used as mutualcapacitance type proximity sensors. Therefore, even when the detectiontarget, the proximity sensor and the display device are in a non-contactstate, a predetermined signal is transmitted to the third electrode (Rx)via a capacitance formed by the second electrode (Txb) and a hand, and acapacitance formed by a hand and the third electrode (Rx). In addition,even if the detection object, the proximity sensor and the displaydevice are in a non-contact state, even if the voltage amplitude of asignal which is input to the second electrode (Txb) is smaller than thevoltage amplitude of a signal input to the first electrode (Txa), it ispossible to transmit a predetermined signal to the third electrode (Rx)via a capacitance formed by the second electrode (Txb) and a hand, and acapacitance formed by a hand and the third electrode (Rx). Therefore, byusing the proximity sensor and the display device according to oneembodiment of the present invention, it is possible to detect theposition where the hand is held over. In addition, since the voltageamplitude of a signal which is input to the second electrode (Txb) issmaller than the voltage amplitude of a signal which is input to thefirst electrode (Txa), the voltage amplitude of a signal transmitted tothe third electrode (Rx) has a relatively large intensity. By using theproximity sensor and the display device according to one embodiment ofthe present invention, it is possible to provide a proximity sensor anda display device which are resistant to noise and have high touchdetection accuracy.

In the proximity sensor and the display device according to oneembodiment of the present invention, the first electrode (Txa), thesecond electrode (Txb) and the third electrode (Rx) are used as mutualcapacitance type proximity sensors. Therefore, even when the detectiontarget, the proximity sensor and the display device are in a non-contactstate, a predetermined signal is transmitted to the third electrode (Rx)via the capacitance formed by the second electrode (Txb) and a hand, anda capacitance formed by a hand and the third electrode (Rx). Inaddition, even when the detection object, the proximity sensor and thedisplay device are in a non-contact state and the pulse width of asignal which is input to the first electrode (Txa) and the pulse widthof a signal which is input to the second electrode (Txb) are different,a predetermined signal is transmitted to the third electrode (Rx) viathe capacitance formed by the second electrode (Txb) and a hand, and acapacitance formed by a hand and the third electrode (Rx). Therefore, byusing the proximity sensor and the display device according to oneembodiment of the present invention, it is possible to detect a positionwhere the hand is held over. In addition, since the pulse width of asignal which is input to the first electrode (Txa) is different to thepulse width of a signal which is input to the second electrode (Txb), itis possible to improve output sensitivity by utilizing the timedirection. By using the proximity sensor and the display deviceaccording to one embodiment of the present invention, even when thevoltage amplitude of each signal is small, it is possible to detect theposition where the hand is held over, that is, it is possible to detectthe position of the touch.

In the proximity sensor and the display device according to oneembodiment of the present invention, the first electrode (Txa), thesecond electrode (Txb) and the third electrode (Rx) are used as mutualcapacitance type proximity sensors. Therefore, even when the detectiontarget, the proximity sensor and the display device are in a non-contactstate, by making the area of the second electrode (Txb) larger than thearea of the first electrode (Txa), even if the phase of a signal whichis input to the first electrode (Txa) and the phase of a signal which isinput to the second electrode (Txb) are the same phase, it is possiblefor a predetermined signal to be transmitted to the third electrode (Rx)via a capacitance formed by the second electrode (Txb) and a hand, and acapacitance formed by a hand and the third electrode (Rx). Therefore, byusing the proximity sensor and the display device according to onembodiment of the present invention, it is possible to detect theposition where the hand is held over. In addition, since the phase ofthe signal which s input to the first electrode (Txa) and the phase ofthe signal which is input to the second electrode (Txb) are the samephase, it is not necessary for a timing generation circuit unit togenerate signals having different phases. Therefore, in the proximitysensor and the display device according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, it is possible to reduce the circuit scale of the timinggeneration circuit part.

In the proximity sensor and the display device according to oneembodiment of the present invention, the first electrode (Txa), thesecond electrode (Txb), and the third electrode (Rx) are used as mutualcapacitance type proximity sensors. Therefore, even when the detectiontarget, the proximity sensor and the display device are in a non-contactstate, by making the area of the second electrode (Txb) larger than thearea of the first electrode (Txa), the phase of the signal which isinput to the first electrode (Txa) and the phase of the signal which isinput to the second electrode (Txb) are the same, and when the pulsewidth of the signal which is input to the first electrode (Txa) and thepulse width of the signal which his input to the second electrode (Txb)are different, it is possible to improve the output sensitivity byutilizing time direction. Therefore, by using the proximity sensor andthe display device according to one embodiment of the present invention,even if the voltage amplitude of each signal is small, it is possible todetect the position where a hand is held over.

Third Embodiment

In the present embodiment, another structure of the proximity sensor andthe display device according to one embodiment of the present inventionis explained. Furthermore, explanations of structures which are similarto those of the first embodiment or the second embodiment may beomitted.

FIG. 16, FIG. 17 and FIG. 18 are schematic planar diagrams showing otherstructures of the proximity sensor and the display device according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is different from the structure of FIG. 1 in that the pluralityof first touch electrodes 521 are different in that each individualfirst touch electrode is formed from three electrodes. Apart from this,FIG. 16 is the same as FIG. 1, and an explanation similar to FIG. 1 isomitted here.

FIG. 17 is different from the structure of FIG. 2 in that the pluralityof first touch electrodes 521 are different in that each individualfirst touch electrode is formed from three electrodes. Apart from this,FIG. 17 is the same as FIG. 2, and an explanation similar to FIG. 2 isomitted here.

Since FIG. 18 is the same as FIG. 3, an explanation is omitted here.

FIG. 19 shows that in each of the plurality of first touch electrodes521, each individual first touch electrode is formed from threeelectrodes. In order to promote understanding, an example is explainedin which the number of the plurality of first touch electrodes 521 issixteen in the proximity sensor and the display device according to oneembodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 19, sixteen first touchelectrodes appear as a row and three electrodes appear as one to threecolumns of electrodes, each electrode is indicated by n rows and mcolumns, and the coordinates of each electrode are expressed by (n, m).For example, the electrodes of nine rows and two columns locatedapproximately at the center of FIG. 19 are shown by the coordinates (9,2). By using the first connection wiring 45 in the proximity sensor andthe display device according to one embodiment of the present invention,since a signal can be independently applied to each of the divided touchelectrodes respectively, it is possible to improve the accuracy of theposition of the touch detection.

For example, the first connection wiring 45 which is connected to eachelectrode at (1, 1), an electrode at (1, 2) and an electrode at (1, 3)are electrically connected to each other outside the connector 512. Theplurality of first touch electrodes 521 shown in FIG. 1 are formed byelectrically connecting the electrodes of each row in the same way.Furthermore, by arranging a switch between the first connection wiring45 and the connector 512 in the method of electrically connecting thefirst connection wiring 45 outside the connector 512, the conduction ornon-conduction of each wiring is controlled. In addition, a switch isformed at the same time as forming a transistor on the substrate 502,and the formed switch may be controlled by a control circuit (not shownin the diagram). The control circuit may be formed on the substrate 502or may be formed outside the connector 512. In addition, the switch maybe controlled by a control signal generated by the control circuit.

Another example that can be exemplified is to increase the area of theelectrode. E1ectrodes from row 2 to 15 shown in FIG. 19 are electricallyconnected to form a second electrode (Txb) 520 having a large area. Allof the electrodes in the first row, all the electrodes in the third row,the electrode in the first row second column, and the electrode in thesixteenth row second column are electrically connected to each other toform a first electrode (Txa) 522 having a large area. Specifically, adisplay device is provided which has a structure in which a firstelectrode (Txa) 522 surrounds a second electrode (Txb) 520 as shown inFIG. 20. By making the area of the second electrode (Txb) 520 largerthan the area of the first electrode (Txa) 522, it is possible toimprove detection sensitivity of a signal transmitted to the thirdelectrode (Rx). Therefore, it is possible to provide a display devicewith touch detection having high sensitivity.

As yet another example, the electrode from row 2 to row 15 shown in FIG.19, the electrode in the first row first column, the electrode in thefirst row third column, the electrode in the sixteenth row first column,and the electrode in the sixteenth row third column are electricallyconnected to form a second electrode (Txb) 520 having a large area.E1ectrodes from the second row of the first column to the fifteenth roware electrically connected to form a first electrode (Txa) 522 on theleft side of the display device in the case when a surface on which animage of the display device is displayed is on top. E1ectrodes from thesecond row of the third column to the fifteenth row are electricallyconnected to form a first electrode (Txa) 522 on the right side of thedisplay device in the case when a surface on which an image of thedisplay device is displayed is on top. A first electrode (Txa) 522 onthe lower side of the display device in the case where the surface onwhich an image of the display device is displayed is on top is formed byan electrode on row one column two. A first electrode (Txa) 522 on theupper side of the display device in the case when the surface on whichan image of the display device is displayed is on top is formed by anelectrode on row sixteen column two. Specifically, the display device asis shown in FIG. 21 is provided. By providing the first electrode (Txa)522 on the top and lower and left and right sides of the display devicein the case when the surface on which an image of the display device isdisplayed is on top, it is possible to provide a display device withhigh sensitivity of detection when a hand is held up, down, left, rightor in an oblique direction.

FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 are schematic cross-sectional diagrams showing astructure of a proximity sensor and a display device according to oneembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 22 shows a cross-section of aregion shown by F1 and F2 shown in FIG. 16. FIG. 23 shows across-section of a region shown by G1 and G2 shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 22 is different from the structure in FIG. 4 in that the firsttouch electrode 521 is divided. Apart from this, FIG. 22 is the same asFIG. 4, and an explanation thereof is omitted.

FIG. 23 is the same as the structure in FIG. 5 and an explanationthereof is omitted.

FIG. 24 is a schematic planar diagram showing yet another structure ofthe proximity sensor and the display device according to one embodimentof the present invention. Furthermore, the cross-section in FIG. 24 isthe same as in FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 and an explanation here is omitted.

The structure in FIG. 24 is explained using FIG. 19. In FIG. 19,electrodes from row one to row eight are electrically connected to formone of the first electrode (Txa) 522 or the second electrode (Txb) 520.E1ectrodes from row nine to row sixteen are electrically connected toform the other of the first electrode (Txa) 522 or the second electrode(Txb) 520. In this way, it is possible to provide the display device 660in which the area of the first electrode (Txa) 522 and the area ofsecond electrode (Txb) 520 are approximately equal.

In FIG. 24, non-contact type sensing can use the timing chart shown inFIG. 11 for example. That is, when a hand is held over the display panel560, for example, a predetermined signal is input to half the number offirst electrodes (Txa) 522 of the number of the plurality of first touchelectrodes 521, and a signal which has a different phase from thepredetermined signal is input to the remaining half of the secondelectrodes (Txb). The hand receives an electric field of the secondelectrode (Txb) 520, and a predetermined signal is transmitted to thethird electrode (Rx) 524B via a capacitance formed by the secondelectrode (Txb) 520 and the hand, and a capacitance formed by the handand the third electrode (Rx) 524B.

When the detection target, the proximity sensor and the display deviceare in a non-contact state, even in the case when the area of the firstelectrode (Txa) 522 is equal to the area of the second electrode (Txb)520, by using the first electrode (Txa) 522, the second electrode (Txb)520 and the third electrode (Rx) 524 as mutual capacitance typeproximity sensors, it is possible to detect the position where the handis held over. Furthermore, in the case when the first electrode (Txa)522 and the second electrode (Txb) 520 are used for touch detection, thethird electrode (Rx) 524B is used and the third electrode (Rx) 524A isnot used.

Similarly, a predetermined signal is input to half the number of firstelectrodes (Txa) 529 of the plurality of second touch electrodes 527 anda signal which has a different phase to the predetermined signal isinput to the remaining half of the second electrodes (Txb) 528. The handreceives an electric field of the second electrode (Txb) 528, and apredetermined signal is transmitted to the third electrode (Rx) 524A viaa capacitance formed by the second electrode (Txb) 528 and a hand, and acapacitance formed by the hand and the third electrode (Rx) 524A.

When the detection target, the proximity sensor and the display deviceare in a non-contact state, even in the case when the area of the firstelectrode (Txa) 529 is equal to the area of the second electrode (Txb)528, by using the first electrode (Txa) 529, the second electrode (Txb)528 and the third electrode (Rx) 524 as mutual capacitance typeproximity sensors, it is possible to detect the position where the handis held over. Furthermore, in the case when the first electrode (Txa)529 and the second electrode (Txb) 528 are used for touch detection, thethird electrode (Rx) 524A is used and the third electrode (Rx) 524B isnot used.

In addition, in the case when the area of the first electrode (Txa) isequal to the area of the second electrode (Txb), it is preferred thatthe voltage amplitude of a signal input to the second electrode (Txb) islarger than the voltage amplitude of a signal input to the firstelectrode (Txa). By making the voltage amplitude of a signal input tothe second electrode (Txb) larger than the voltage amplitude of a signalinput to the first electrode (Txa), it is possible to provide a displaydevice with touch detection sensitivity higher than that of a case wherethe voltage amplitude of a signal input to the second electrode (Txb) isequal to or smaller than the voltage amplitude of a signal input to thefirst electrode (Txa).

Furthermore, in FIG. 24, for example, non-contact type sensing may usethe timing chart shown in FIG. 15. That is, a predetermined signal(Txas) and a predetermined signal (Txbs) may have different pulsewidths. For example, in the case when Tt is a unit of time, thepredetermined signal (Txas) corresponds to one cycle whereas thepredetermined signal (Txbs) is two cycles. In addition, thepredetermined signal (Txas) and the predetermined signal (Txbs) may alsohave different pulse widths and different voltage amplitudes.

In the proximity sensor and the display device according to oneembodiment of the present invention, when the detection target, theproximity sensor and the display device are in a non-contact state, evenif the area of the first electrode (Txa) and the area of the secondelectrode (Txb) are equal, a predetermined signal is transmitted to thethird electrode (Rx) via a capacitance formed by the second electrode(Txb) and a hand, and a capacitance formed by the hand and the thirdelectrode (Rx). In addition, in the proximity sensor and the displaydevice according to one embodiment of the present invention, when thedetection target, the proximity sensor and the display device are in anon-contact state, even if the pulse width of a signal input to thefirst electrode (Txa) and the pulse width of a signal input to thesecond electrode (Txb) are different, a predetermined signal istransmitted to the third electrode (Rx) via a capacitance formed by thesecond electrode (Txb) and a hand, and a capacitance formed by the handand the third electrode (Rx). Therefore, the proximity sensor and thedisplay device according to one embodiment of the present invention candetect the position where the hand is held over.

In addition, in the proximity sensor and the display device according toone embodiment of the present invention, by making the pulse width of asignal input to the first electrode (Txa) and the pulse width of asignal input to the second electrode (Txb) different, it is possible toimprove output sensitivity by using time direction. Even when thevoltage amplitude of each signal is small, by using the first electrode(Txa), the second electrode (Txb), and the third electrode (Rx) 524 asmutual capacitance type proximity sensors, it is possible to detect theposition where a hand is held over.

Furthermore, it is not absolutely necessary that the area of the firstelectrode (Txa) and the area of the second electrode (Txb) are equal.For example, the area of the second electrode (Txb) and the area of thefirst electrode (Txa) may be in a ratio of 6:4 or 7:3. In the case whenthe area of the first electrode (Txa) is different from the area of thesecond electrode (Txb), it is preferred that the area of the secondelectrode (Txb) is larger than the area of the first electrode (Txa).

In addition, it is preferred that the voltage amplitude of a signalinput to the second electrode (Txb) is larger than the voltage amplitudeof a signal input to the first electrode (Txa). Since it is possible toimprove the detection sensitivity of a signal transmitted to the thirdelectrode (Rx) by making the area of the second electrode (Txb) largerthan the area of the first electrode (Txa), it is possible to provide adisplay device with high sensitivity touch detection. In addition, bymaking the voltage amplitude of a signal input to the second electrode(Txb) larger than the voltage amplitude of a signal input to the firstelectrode (Txa), it is possible to improve the detection sensitivity ofa signal transmitted to the third electrode (Rx). Therefore, by usingthe proximity sensor and the display device according to one embodimentof the present invention, it is possible to provide a display devicewith high sensitivity for touch detection.

Fourth Embodiment

In the present embodiment, yet another structure of the proximity sensorand the display device according to one embodiment of the presentinvention is explained. Furthermore, explanations of structures similarto those of the first to third embodiments may be omitted.

FIG. 25 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a proximitysensor and a display device according to one embodiment of the presentinvention. FIG. 26 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram of a proximitysensor and a display device according to one embodiment of the presentinvention. FIG. 26 shows a cross-section of a region shown by C1 and C2in FIG. 25. In FIG. 25, in addition to the structure of FIG. 21 whichcan be realized by electrically connecting divided electrodes in thestructure shown in FIG. 16, the first electrode (Txa) 522 is arrangedbetween the third electrode (Rx) 524A or the third electrode (Rx) 524Band the end part of the display panel 550, and a fourth electrode 526 isarranged between the third electrode (Rx) 524A or the third electrode(Rx) and the second electrode (Txb) 520. Apart from this, in FIG. 25,the remaining structure is the same as in FIG. 16, therefore, the sameexplanation as in FIG. 16 is omitted here. Furthermore, in order topromote understanding, a plurality of second touch electrodes 527 inFIG. 16 are not illustrated.

For example, a constant voltage of 0V is applied to the fourth electrode526. The fourth electrode 526 is arranged between the second electrode(Txb) 520 and the third electrode (Rx) 524. By applying a constantvoltage to the fourth electrode 526, it is possible to shield anelectric field being generated between the second electrode (Txb) 520and the third electrode (Rx) 524. That is, even when the detectionobject, the proximity sensor, and the display device are in anon-contact state, the hand receives the electric field of the secondelectrode (Txb) and a predetermined signal is transmitted to the thirdelectrode (Rx) via a capacitance formed by the second electrode (Txb)and the hand, and a capacitance formed by the hand and the thirdelectrode (Rx). When the detection target, the proximity sensor and thedisplay device are in a non-contact state, it is possible to detect theposition where the hand is held over by using the first electrode (Txa)522, the second electrode (Txb) 520 and the third electrode (Rx) 524 asmutual capacitance type proximity sensors.

Fifth Embodiment

In the present embodiment, another structure of the proximity sensor andthe display device according to one embodiment of the present inventionis explained. Furthermore, explanations of structures similar to thoseof the first to fourth embodiments may be omitted.

FIG. 27 is a schematic planar diagram showing an example of thestructure of the proximity sensor and the display device according toone embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 28 and FIG. 29 areschematic cross-sectional diagrams of a proximity sensor and a displaydevice according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 28shows a cross-section of a region shown by H1 and H2 in FIG. 27, andFIG. 29 shows a cross-section of a region shown by J1 and J2 in FIG. 27respectively.

According to FIG. 27, the display device 680 is formed from a displaypanel 580, a circuit substrate 400 and a connector 512. Since thecircuit substrate 400 and the connector 512 have been explained in FIG.1, an explanation here is omitted. The display panel 580 includes aplurality of first touch electrodes 541 arranged in parallel in ahorizontal direction viewed from the top surface, a plurality of secondtouch electrodes 547 arranged in parallel in a vertical direction viewedfrom the top surface, a third electrode (Rx) 524A and 524B, a substrate502, a display region 504, an image signal line drive circuit 506 andscanning signal line drive circuits 508 and 510. The first touchelectrode 541 is formed from a first electrode (Txa) 542 and a secondelectrode (Txb) 540. The second touch electrode 547 is formed from afirst electrode (Txa) 549 and a second electrode (Txb) 548.

In FIG. 27, in normal contact sensing, when a finger contacts thedisplay panel 580, for example, pulse signals are applied in timesequence to the plurality of first touch electrodes 541 in order fromthe upper electrode in a top surface view, and a change in the pulsesignal at the position where the finger contacts the display panel 580is detected by any one of the plurality of second touch electrodes 547.In this way, it is possible to perform touch detection in a contactstate.

In FIG. 27, for example, the timing charts shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 15can be used for non-contact type sensing.

It is preferred that the first touch electrode 541 and the second touchelectrode 547 shown in FIG. 27 have translucency and conductivitysimilar to the second electrode (Txb) 520 shown in FIG. 9. For example,it is possible to form the first touch electrode 541 and the secondtouch electrode 547 using ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) or IZO (Indium ZincOxide). Touch detection is performed at a part where the first touchelectrode 541 and the second touch electrode 547 intersect.

A cross-section of the display panel 580 shown in FIG. 27 is explainedusing FIG. 28 and FIG. 29. FIG. 28 and FIG. 29 are different from FIG. 4and FIG. 5 respectively in that a second touch electrode layer 130 isadded without using the connection wiring layer 48. The same contents asin FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 are omitted here. The second touch electrode layer130 is formed from a first electrode (Txa) 549, a second electrode (Txb)548, and an insulating film covering each electrode. The insulating filmmay be a film using an organic resin as a material or a film includingan adhesive. For example, the same material used for forming theplanarization film 31 explained in FIG. 9 can be used.

Sixth Embodiment

In the present embodiment, a schematic planar diagram showing anotherstructure of the proximity sensor and the display device according toone embodiment of the present invention is explained. Furthermore,explanations of structures similar to those of the first to fifthembodiments may be omitted.

FIG. 30 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a displaydevice 600 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 30shows a structure whereby the structure shown in FIG. 21 which can berealized by electrically connecting divided electrodes in the structureshown in FIG. 16, is realized without dividing the electrodes. Apartfrom this, since the remaining structure is the same as in FIG. 16 andFIG. 21 an explanation is omitted. In the present embodiment, an examplein shown which the second touch electrode 527 shown in FIG. 16 is notarranged.

The display panel 500 includes a first electrode (Txa) 522, a secondelectrode (Txb) 520 and a third electrode (Rx) 524. The area of thefirst electrode (Txa) 522 is larger than the area of the secondelectrode (Txb) 520 and the third electrode (Rx) 524.

FIG. 31 shows a cross-section of a region shown by A1 and A2 shown inFIG. 30. An explanation the same as in FIG. 4 is omitted. The displaypanel 500 includes a substrate 20, a TFT array layer 30, a commonelectrode layer 40, a first oriented film 50, a liquid crystal layer 60,a second oriented film 70, a color filter layer 80, an opposingsubstrate 90, a first touch electrode layer 100, and a substrate 110.Furthermore, the substrate 20 is the same as the substrate 502 shown inFIG. 2. A pixel electrode 52 included in the pixel 120 is arrangedbetween the common electrode layer 40 and the first oriented film 50. Inthe opposing substrate 90, a third electrode (Rx) 524 is arranged on therear surface of the surface on which the color filter layer 80 isarranged.

When an image is displayed on the display panel 500, a common voltage of0V, for example, is applied to the first electrode (Txa) 522 and thesecond electrode (Txb) 520 which are included in the common electrodelayer 40. A liquid crystal element included in the liquid crystal layer60 is controlled according to the voltage applied to the first electrode(Txa) 522 and the second electrode (Txb) 520 and the voltage applied tothe pixel electrode 52. At this time, a common voltage of 0V may also beapplied also to the third electrode (Rx) 524.

In the proximity sensor and the display device according to oneembodiment of the present invention, the first electrode (Txa), thesecond electrode (Txb), and the third electrode (Rx) are used as mutualcapacitance type proximity sensors. Therefore, even when the detectiontarget, the proximity sensor and the display device are in a non-contactstate, a hand receives an electric field of the first electrode (Txa)and a predetermined signal is transmitted to the third electrode (Rx)via a capacitance formed by the first electrode (Txa) and a hand, and acapacitance formed by the hand and the third electrode (Rx). Therefore,by using the proximity sensor and the display device according to oneembodiment of the present invention, it is possible to detect theposition where the hand is held over.

Seventh Embodiment

In the present embodiment, a schematic planar diagram showing anotherstructure of the proximity sensor and the display device according toone embodiment of the present invention is explained. Furthermore,explanations of structures similar to those of the first to sixthembodiments may be omitted.

FIG. 32 is a schematic planar diagram showing a structure of a displaydevice 690 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 32shows a structure whereby the structure shown in FIG. 20 which can berealized by electrically connecting divided electrodes in the structureshown in FIG. 16, is realized without dividing the electrodes. Apartfrom this, since the remaining structure is the same as in FIG. 16 andFIG. 20, an explanation is omitted. Furthermore, FIG. 33 shows anexample in which the second touch electrode 527 shown in FIG. 16 is notarranged. FIG. 36 shows an example in which the second touch electrode527 shown in FIG. 16 is arranged.

The display panel 590 includes a first electrode (Txa) 522, a secondelectrode (Txb) 520 and a third electrode (Rx) 524. The area of thefirst electrode (Txa) 522 is larger than the area of the secondelectrode (Txb) 520, and the area of the first electrode (Txa) 522 islarger than the area of the third electrode (Rx) 524.

FIG. 33 shows a cross-section of a region shown by A1 and A2 shown inFIG. 32. FIG. 33 is different from the structure of FIG. 4 and FIG. 22in that the stacking of common electrode layer 40 and the connectionwiring layer 48 is different. In addition, the second touch electrode527 shown in FIG. 16 is not arranged in FIG. 33. More specifically, inFIG. 33, the connection wiring layer 48 is closer to the substrate 20than the common electrode layer 40, and the common electrode layer 40 isstacked on the connection wiring layer 48. In the present embodiment, itis assumed that a third opening part 46 is included in the connectionwiring layer 48. FIG. 33 is the same as FIG. 4 and FIG. 22 except forthat explained above, and an explanation thereof is omitted here. Thesubstrate 20 is the same as the substrate 502 shown in FIG. 2. The pixelelectrode 52 included in the pixel 120 is arranged between the commonelectrode layer 40 and the first oriented film 50. In the opposingsubstrate 90, a third electrode (Rx) 524 is arranged on the rear surfaceof the surface on which the color filter layer 80 is arranged.Furthermore, in order to easily view FIG. 33, the size of the combshaped linear member of the pixel electrode 52 is illustrated large sothat it can be compared with the first electrode (Txa) 522 and the like.Actually, the size of the comb shaped linear member of the pixelelectrode 52 is much smaller compared to the first electrode (Txa) 522.For example, as is shown in FIG. 8, three pixel electrodes 52 areconnected with a plurality of narrow linear members, and the spacebetween the linear members is formed in a slit shape. The number of thelinear members and the number of the slits between the linear members isnot limited to the example shown in FIG. 8.

Furthermore. the structure in which the common electrode layer 40 isstacked on the connection wiring layer 48 in the present embodiment mayalso be applied to the first to fourth embodiments in the presentspecification.

FIG. 34 shows electric lines of force in an electric field between thepixel electrode 52 and the second electrode (Txb) 520 when an image isdisplayed on the display panel 590. In an FFS mode, a lateral electricfield (for example, an electric field almost parallel to a main surfaceof a substrate in a fringe electric field) formed between the firstelectrode (Txa) 522 and the second electrode (Txb) 520 included in thepixel electrode 52 and the common electrode layer 40 is mainly utilizedand orientation of liquid crystal elements which form a liquid crystallayer 60 is controlled. For example, a common voltage of 0V is appliedto the first electrode (Txa) 522 and the second electrode (Txb) 520included in the common electrode layer 40. The liquid crystal elementsincluded in the liquid crystal layer 60 are controlled according to thecommon voltage applied to the first electrode (Txa) 522 and the secondelectrode (Txb) 520 and the voltage applied to the pixel electrode 52.At this time, a common voltage of 0V may also be applied to the thirdelectrode (Rx) 524.

FIG. 35 shows electric lines of force in an electric field generatedbetween the first electrode (Txa) 522 and the second electrode (Txb) 520and the third electrode (Rx) 524 when touch detection is performed.Touch detection and writing of new image data to a pixel are notperformed at the same time. In FIG. 35, for example, the timing chartshown in FIG. 11 can be used for non-contact sensing. That is, when ahand is held over the display panel 590, for example, a predeterminedsignal is input to the first electrode (Txa) 522 and a signal which hasa different phase to the phase of the predetermined signal is input tothe second electrode (Txb) 520, and thereby the hand receives anelectric field of the second electrode (Txb) 520. A predetermined signalis transmitted to the third electrode (Rx) 524 via the capacitanceformed by the second electrode (Txb) 520 and a hand, and the capacitanceformed by the hand and the third electrode (Rx) 524.

FIG. 36 shows an example in which the second touch electrode 527 shownin FIG. 16 is arranged in addition to the structure in FIG. 33. Thesecond touch electrode 527 has a first electrode (Txa) 529 and a secondelectrode (Txb) 528. In the display panel 590 according to oneembodiment of the present invention, the first electrode (Txa) 529 andthe second electrode (Txb) 528 included in the second touch electrode527 have the same function as the third electrode (Rx) 524A. That is,when touch detection is performed, a detection target such as a humanfinger touches or comes close to the display region 504 (touching andcomes close to are collectively referred to herein as “touch”) via thefirst electrode (Txa) 522 or the second electrode (Txb) 520, and thesecond touch electrode 527 or the third electrode (Rx) 524A. In thisway, in addition to parasitic capacitance at the first electrode (Txa)522 or the second electrode (Txb) 520 and the second touch electrode 527or the third electrode (Rx) 524A, a capacitance generated between thedetection target and first electrode (Txa) 522, the second electrode(Txb) 520, the second touch electrode 527 or the third electrode (Rx)524A is added. The position of the touch is detected by reading thischange.

In the proximity sensor and the display device according to oneembodiment of the present invention, the second electrode (Txb) is notdivided. In the proximity sensor and the display device according to oneembodiment of the present invention, the second electrode (Txb) has alarger area than the first electrode (Txa) and the second electrode(Txb) is one electrode. In the proximity sensor and the display deviceaccording to one embodiment of the present invention, even when thedetection target, the proximity sensor and the display device are in anon-contact state and the second electrode (Txb) is a single electrodehaving a large area, by inputting a predetermined signal to the firstelectrode (Txa) and inputting a signal having a different phase to thephase of the predetermined signal to the second electrode (Txb), thehand receives an electric field of the second electrode (Txb), and thepredetermined signal is transmitted to the third electrode (Rx) via acapacitance formed by the second electrode (Txb) and a hand, and acapacitance formed by the hand and the third electrode (Rx). Therefore,the proximity sensor and the display device according to one embodimentof the present invention can detect the position where the hand is heldover.

Each embodiment described above as embodiments of the present inventioncan be implemented in appropriate combination as long as they do notcontradict each other.

Although the image processing device and the image processing method ofthe image processing device and a display system installed with theseare mainly exemplified as disclosed examples in the present disclosure,a display device displaying the image data processed by the imageprocessing device can be any flat panel type display device such asanother self-light emitting display device, a liquid crystal displaydevice, or an electronic paper type display device having anelectrophoretic element or the like. In addition, the present inventioncan be applied from medium to small size to large size devices withoutany particular limitations.

Even if an effect is another action or effect different from the actionand effect brought about by the aspects of each embodiment describedabove, those that are obvious from the description of the presentspecification or those easily predictable by a person skilled in the artwill naturally be interpreted as being provided by the presentinvention.

1-19. (canceled)
 20. A proximity sensor comprising: a substrate; aplurality of translucent first electrodes on the substrate; aquadrilateral translucent second electrode having a larger area than anarea of one of the translucent first electrodes on a same layer as thetranslucent first electrodes on the substrate; and a plurality of thirdelectrodes on the substrate arranged along each of four sides of thesubstrate, wherein the translucent first electrodes are arranged inframe-shaped and are arranged outside the quadrilateral translucentsecond electrode, and the third electrodes are arranged outside thetranslucent first electrodes.
 21. The proximity sensor according toclaim 20, wherein the translucent first electrodes are input with afirst signal and the quadrilateral translucent second electrode is inputwith a second signal different from the first signal.
 22. The proximitysensor according to claim 21, wherein the second signal has a reversephase of the first signal.
 23. The proximity sensor according to claim20, wherein a total area of the second electrode is larger than a totalarea of the third electrodes.
 24. The proximity sensor according toclaim 21, wherein an amplitude of the second signal is equal to orlarger than an amplitude of the first signal.
 25. The proximity sensoraccording to claim 21, wherein a pulse width of the second signal isnarrower than a pulse width of the first signal, and a number of pulsesof the second signal per predetermined period of time is more than anumber of pulses of the first signal.